Windows 10 Support Ending: Complete Guide to Windows 11 Upgrade
Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive feature updates, security updates, and technical support for Windows 10 will no longer be provided. Microsoft recommends that users still on Windows 10 upgrade to Windows 11, and considering the new features this operating system offers, this upgrade makes practical sense.
This guide covers everything you need to know: how to make this upgrade, how to plan for a smooth Windows 10 to Windows 11 migration, and what to do if your desktop PC or laptop doesn't support Windows 11.
When Does Windows 10 Support End?
The official Windows 10 end of support date is October 14, 2025. After this date:
- No feature updates: Windows 10 will not receive new features, existing features won't be improved, and bugs won't be fixed
- No security updates: Your devices will be unprotected against security vulnerabilities discovered after October 14, 2025
- No technical support: Microsoft support will no longer assist with Windows 10 issues
You can continue using Windows 10 after October 14, 2025 – your device won't suddenly stop working. However, without technical support, new features such as artificial intelligence, new AI features, or security updates, your system becomes increasingly vulnerable.
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The Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program can extend Windows support by one year (until October 14, 2026). Note that this is a paid program limited to security updates only.
Why Upgrade to Windows 11?
Windows 11 offers compelling reasons to upgrade:
1. Enhanced security features and improvements
- Passkeys integrated with Windows Hello replace passwords on supported websites and apps
- TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 support delivers next-gen security and privacy
- Advanced network security with Hyper-V, Wi-Fi 6, WPA3, and Bluetooth 5.3 support
2. New productivity and collaboration tools
- CoPilot AI provides intelligent suggestions in File Explorer, the Start menu, and the taskbar
- Enhanced Search functionality
- Real-time live captions for videos and online meetings
- Snap layouts make switching between different desktops easier
3. Performance benefits and modern interface
- Fewer default apps running in the background consuming resources
- New Task Manager for monitoring device performance with efficiency mode
- DirectX 12-supported games with more immersive graphics
- DirectStorage for nearly instantaneous game loading
- Auto HDR for superior visual experience
- Modern interface for easier access to all features
4. Long-term support and future-proofing
Windows 11 uses a modern lifecycle, not a fixed one. Each new version receives support for:
- 24 months for Home & Pro editions
- 36 months for Enterprise & Education editions
For example, Version 24H2, released October 1, 2024, has support until October 13, 2026. When Version 25H2 releases, the support cycle starts anew.
Windows 11 System Requirements
Microsoft's official Windows 11 minimum system requirements are:
- CPU: At least a 2-core 1 GHz 64-bit processor
- For Copilot features: AMD Ryzen™ AI 300, Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V, or Snapdragon® X
- RAM: 4GB minimum
- For Copilot features: 16GB DDR5/LPDDR5 RAM
- STORAGE: 64GB minimum
- For Copilot features: 256GB SSD/UFS
- SYSTEM FIRMWARE: UEFI/BIOS with Secure Boot support
- TPM: TPM 2.0
- GRAPHICS CARD: DirectX 12 compatible
- DISPLAY: Larger than 9-inches with at least 720p resolution
Understanding Secure Boot
Secure Boot prevents viruses and malicious software from loading during startup. All HP desktop computers and HP workstations running Windows 11 support and enable it by default.
Understanding TPM
The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is a motherboard chip providing hardware-based security. Most motherboards from the last 5 years include TPM, though it may need enabling from the BIOS menu. On HP computers, enter the BIOS menu, change "TPM Device" in the "Security" tab to "Available", and set "TPM State" to "Enabled".
How to Check Your Current System Compatibility
Simply download and run the PC Health Check app. After scanning your system, the app shows whether your device is compatible with Windows 11.
How to Upgrade to Windows 11
Before upgrading, complete this preparation checklist:
1. Note down your Microsoft account username and password. You will be asked for this information during setup: if you enter the username and password for the Microsoft account you use on your Windows 10 device, most of your settings will be transferred to Windows 11.
2. Back up all important files on the device you are upgrading. You can use Windows 10's built-in backup tool for this, or you can use online backup services such as Microsoft's OneDrive.
3. Update Windows 10. If you are not performing a clean installation, i.e., you are upgrading to Windows 11 while keeping your files, update Windows 10 first – a feature or security update may have been released that will make the migration process smoother.
4. Get a USB flash drive. This will be needed if you choose the Media Creation Tool method and it needs to be at least 8GB.
After preparation, choose one of these upgrade methods:
Method 1: Windows Update Automatic Upgrade
- Select "Start" and choose "Settings"
- Select "Update & Security"
- Open "Windows Update"
- Select "Check for updates"
- If compatible, you'll see "Windows 11 is ready"
- Click "Download and install" to upgrade
Method 2: Media Creation Tool installation
- Visit the Download Windows 11 website
- Find "Create Windows 11 Installation Media" and click "Download Now"
- Run MediaCreationTool.exe – insert your USB flash drive when prompted
- After download completes, reinsert the USB drive into your device
- Windows 11 installation starts automatically
- Follow on-screen instructions
Method 3: Clean Installation Process
- Insert the USB drive with setup files and restart your device
- Boot from the USB drive (may require BIOS boot order changes)
- At the Windows Setup screen, follow the instructions
- Select "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)"
- Complete installation following on-screen instructions
Windows 11 Upgrade Timeline and Planning
For a smooth migration, follow these recommendations:
- Don't wait until October 14, 2025 – complete your Windows 11 upgrade early to resolve potential issues before support ends
- For multiple business computers, consider using Microsoft Endpoint Manager for remote, simultaneous upgrades
- Ensure all devices are Windows 11 compatible – mixed environments create compatibility and security issues
- Consider replacing incompatible devices with Windows 11 Compatible HP Laptops and/or HP Business Computers with Windows 11.
- Create three backup copies: one cloud-based, two physical (store one off-site)
- Test applications for Windows 11 compatibility – while most Windows 10 apps work, TPM and Secure Boot may affect applications requiring external hardware
Common Questions About Windows 11 Upgrade
Is the Windows 11 upgrade free?
Yes. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free. No new license purchase is required.
What if my computer doesn't meet requirements?
If your device doesn't meet requirements, you cannot upgrade to Windows 11. Your only option is switching to a Windows 11-compatible desktop PC or laptop.
Can I roll back to Windows 10 after upgrading?
You can revert to Windows 10 within 10 days of upgrading. Your old files and Windows installation remain stored during this period. After 10 days, reverting requires a clean Windows 10 install.
How long does the upgrade process take?
Most systems complete the Windows 11 upgrade in approximately 20 minutes. This varies based on hardware specifications, storage space, and internet speed.
Do Not Wait Until the Last Minute – Upgrade Now
Windows 11 is a modern operating system offering enhanced security, improved performance, and more features than Windows 10. We strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 11 if your device is compatible. Without a compatible device, consider switching to a Windows 11-compatible PC or laptop. Otherwise, you risk using a potentially insecure computer that cannot access new features.
Ensure you upgrade to Windows 11 or switch to a compatible device before October 14, 2025. HP stands ready to assist with your migration process. Learn more about the Windows 11 upgrade or contact our customer representatives.
